The Bahamas Records Historic 12.5 Million Visitors in 2025

The Bahamas records historic 12.5 million visitors in 2025, marking the strongest tourism year in the country’s history.

Figures released by the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation show visitor arrivals rose 11.4 per cent year-over-year. The total surpasses the previous 2024 record and exceeds 2019 pre-pandemic levels by more than 70 per cent. The results highlight strong global demand and continued confidence in the destination.

The Bahamas Records Historic 12.5 Million Visitors in 2025 as Cruise Tourism Surges

Cruise travel drove most of the growth. Cruise visitors accounted for 86.5 per cent of all arrivals in 2025. Sea arrivals climbed to more than 10.6 million visitors, up 14 per cent from 2024 and nearly double 2019 levels.

Major ports, including Nassau and Paradise Island, recorded their highest passenger volumes to date. New cruise infrastructure and expanded cruise partnerships supported the increase. The Out Islands also saw continued gains, benefiting from stronger cruise schedules and visitor demand.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation Chester Cooper described the milestone as a major achievement for the industry.

“Reaching 12.5 million visitors shows confidence in our destination and our tourism strategy,” Cooper said. He added that tourism continues to create jobs and investment across the islands, while the government remains focused on sustainable growth.

The Bahamas Records Historic 12.5 Million Visitors in 2025 Across the Islands

Tourism growth extended across the archipelago. Abaco recorded its highest visitor arrivals on record, welcoming just under 520,000 visitors. Strong cruise traffic and growing interest in Out Island travel fueled the increase.

Grand Bahama posted a major rebound, with total arrivals exceeding one million for the first time in over 20 years. About 1.1 million visitors arrived through December. Expanded airlift supported the recovery. Air arrivals rose 20 per cent year-over-year and exceeded 2019 levels by more than 30 per cent. Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses all benefited.

Other Family Islands also reported strong performance. Eleuthera recorded nearly 30 per cent growth, while Bimini and the Berry Islands continued to strengthen their cruise appeal. Nearly 30 per cent of stopover visitors traveled to the Out Islands, helping spread tourism revenue more evenly.

Air Travel and Key Markets Support Growth

Air arrivals remained strong despite global aviation challenges. Nearly 1.7 million foreign air visitors traveled to The Bahamas in 2025. Demand increased toward the end of the year.

Canada emerged as a key growth market, following expanded air service and stronger airline partnerships. Stopover tourism remained healthy, with more than 1.8 million stopover visitors recorded. Most visitors stayed in Nassau and Paradise Island, while almost one-third chose the Out Islands.

Brand Strength and Global Recognition

Director General of Tourism Latia Duncombe said the results reflect the strength of the destination’s brand.

“Welcoming 12.5 million visitors shows the power of Brand Bahamas,” Duncombe said. “Our islands continue to meet the needs of today’s travelers.”

The Bahamas also received international recognition for destination marketing, digital engagement, and sustainability efforts. Officials credited the record year to strong collaboration between government agencies, tourism partners, airlines, cruise lines, hotels, and small tourism businesses.

As tourism continues to grow, the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation said it will focus on infrastructure development, sustainability, and long-term economic benefits for Bahamians.